Getting into veterinary school is no easy feat. Neither is being selected for Homecoming royalty at a Twin Cities university campus boasting more than 42,000 students. Hannah Stinski-Ertl has done both. 

Stinski-Ertl, a second-year DVM student at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), is among 10 students named to this year’s Homecoming court—and the only one among them who is not an undergraduate. 

The role puts Stinski-Ertl and her cohorts front and center at numerous fall events, including appearances at Welcome Week and helping with Homecoming activities such as the blood drive, drag bingo, trivia night, and concert. 

Whether at an event or in a veterinary exam room, interacting with people is right where Stinski-Ertl wants to be. 

“I was a communication minor back in undergrad, so I really enjoyed talking to people—it’s why I really love general practice, for the client-patient interaction,” she says. “And so I think that just really helps with getting out there and talking to students, getting them interested, telling them about what it is to like to be a Gopher.”

Stinski-Ertl is a first-generation college student and holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from California State University, Fresno. Becoming a veterinarian has been her dream since she was 5 years old. That decision was cemented when a home renovation during her childhood had an unexpected side effect

“My mom completely gutted the backyard and built a pool. Then my dog lost all of his fur,” she says. “That's when we found out that he was allergic to dirt. So that process of seeing exams and learning about dermatology really helped me get into veterinary medicine.”

Veterinary studies, involvement in campus organizations, and Homecoming appearances mean a packed schedule for Stinski-Ertl. She is a GOALE (Gopher Orientation and Leadership Experience) mentor, chair of the Social Committee for Student American Veterinary Medical Association, class representative for 2025 with the CVM Alumni and Friends Society Board, and involved with multiple clubs on campus.  

Stinski-Ertl fits right in on the Homecoming court, as ideal candidates are described as enthusiastic, energetic, goal-oriented, involved, and academically successful students. They also must be well-rounded, exhibit leadership skills, and possess the ability to work well within a team setting.

After UMN students get to know the royalty candidates through their appearances at events, a schoolwide vote is held and is used in part to determine the top two candidates, who are then crowned as Homecoming Royals. Voting will open Monday, Sept. 26 and close at noon on Sept. 30.

Learn more about Stinski-Ertl and the Homecoming court on the UMN Homecoming Royalty page. To vote for UMN Homecoming Royalty, click here.